Magnetically Levitated Trains (MagLev)

By Sarah Holko

What are MagLev trains?

MagLev uses Electromagnetic Propulsion. Trains are thrust forward by positively and negatively charged magnets. The train floats on a cushion of air eliminating friction.

MagLev Guideways or Tracks

Track repels magnets on undercarriage of train, sending the train forward. Train levitates between 1 and 10 cm above guideway.

MagLev vs. Conventional Trains

MagLev Trains Conventional Trains

No Friction = Less Maintenance

No Engine = No fuel required Speeds in excess of 300 mph

Routine Maintenance Needed

Engine requires fossil fuels Speeds up to 110 mph

Better for the Environment

Less energy consumption because no railtrack friction Requires no fossil fuel which can harm the environment. Less noise pollution since the train never hits the track MagLev guideways and trains take up less space than conventional trains

Other MagLev Applications

Disneylands California Adventure Coaster California Screamin roller coaster uses MagLev technology to propel car from 055 mph in less than 5 seconds! Disneyland - California Screamin'

Other MagLev Applications

U.S. military is looking into using MagLev Possible uses could include:

Rocket

launching Aircraft carrier launching pad Space craft launching

Travel Speeds
At 300 mph, you could travel to Paris to Rome in just 2 hours! Anaheim to Las Vegas in just 86 minutes, and cheaper than flying!!!! Maglev

References

Bonsor, Kevin. How Maglev Trains Work. 5 September, 2002. <http://travel.howstuffworks.com/maglev-train.htm> Keating, Oliver. Maglevs (Magnetically Levitated Trains). 16 June, 2000. <http://www.okeating.com/hsr/maglev.htm> Disney Online. California Screamin. August, 1999. <http://disneyland.disney.go.com/disneyland/en_US/parks/attraction s/detail?name=CaliforniaScreaminAttractionPage>

MagLev Systems. Electromagnetic Systems. General Atomics and Affiliated Companies. 2005. <http://www.ga.com/atg/ems.php>.